Behaviour of Natural Rubber in Comparison with Structural Steel, Aluminium and Glass Epoxy Composite under Low Velocity Impact Loading

Abstract

This paper presents the low velocity gravity impact behaviour of various materials (Structural steel, Aluminium, Rubber and Glass Epoxy composite). A comparison of the above said materials is reported considering various parameters such as Total Energy, contact force, deformation, von mises stress and strain and specific energy absorbed are carried out. The results confirmed that rubber absorbs more energy compared to other materials considered thus highlighting its potential use in structural applications subjected to low velocity impact. The natural rubber in many ways is an ideal polymer for dynamic or static engineering applications. It has excellent dynamic properties, with a low hysteresis loss, and good low temperature properties, it can be bonded well to metal parts, has high resistance to tear and abrasion and it is relatively easy to process. Natural rubber composites find technological interest in that they exhibit additional features like biodegradability and renewability, along with the inherent stiffness, low cost and low density. The great advantage of natural rubber based on its linear elasticity, high strength, fatigue life and excellent adhesion to metals makes it well suited for structural or semi structural applications. � 2017 Elsevier Ltd.